Green hydrogen has become a hot topic across Europe as the continent looks to cut its carbon footprint and move towards a more sustainable energy future. Now, Austria, Germany, and Italy are joining forces to press the European Union (EU) to back a series of infrastructure projects aimed at transporting green hydrogen from North Africa to European markets.
In a letter sent to the European Commission on Monday, the ministers of the three countries urged Brussels to give priority status to a number of hydrogen projects seeking EU funding and fast-tracked permits. These projects would transport renewable hydrogen from North Africa to European demand hubs via a network of pipelines.
“The development of the project candidates will contribute to security of supply and greater diversification of import sources, while at the same time reducing fossil dependencies,” said the letter, seen by Reuters.
The proposed projects include a hydrogen pipeline between Germany, Austria, and Slovakia, as well as the conversion of an existing gas pipeline, owned by Italian company Snam, to carry hydrogen instead. These projects are expected to contribute to the building of a European hydrogen network and help reduce Europe's dependence on fossil fuels.
The push for these projects comes as Europe is racing to bolster renewable energy sources, in response to Moscow's invasion of Ukraine and the need to find alternatives to Russian gas supplies. With a range of sectors eyeing renewable hydrogen as a way to cut their carbon footprint, Europe's demand for the fuel is expected to outstrip local supply, meaning imports will be needed.
“The EU wants to produce 10 million tonnes of renewable hydrogen and import another 10 million by 2030,” said the report.
Other hydrogen projects are also in the works, including the proposed “BarMar” pipeline, which would transport low-carbon hydrogen between Spain and France, with the aim of carrying 2 million tonnes a year by 2030.
The ministers' letter demonstrates the increasing momentum behind green hydrogen and its potential to play a significant role in Europe's transition to a low-carbon future. As German Economy Minister Peter Altmaier noted, “We are just at the beginning of the hydrogen era. This is about our energy security and the creation of a new industrial value chain in Europe.”
Europe is clearly taking steps to secure its energy future and reduce its carbon footprint, and the development of a green hydrogen infrastructure could be a key part of this effort. With the backing of countries like Austria, Germany, and Italy, the EU has an opportunity to lead the way in the transition to a more sustainable energy system, powered by green hydrogen.
